There are several great nearby places to see geology for yourself, whether you're interested in collecting Late Ordovician fossils, exploring glacier-carved landscapes, or observing streams as they shape the modern landscape. Below are links to several superb natural areas, including Miami University's own Peffer Park, which is only a five-minute walk from Shideler Hall. At Peffer Park, you can see outcrops of glacial deposits and much older bedrock exposed along Collins Run Creek. In fact, as a student in the introductory geology laboratory course (GLG 115.L), you can explore this creek every semester to learn about local geology.

Peffer Park

Once a pastureland and farm, this 80-acre plot was purchased as two parcels in 1955 and 1966 by Miami University. Later, Fred C. Yager generously donated money to Miami University in order to develop a park on this land south of campus along Highway 27. Yager stipulated that the park was to be developed in memory of his nephew, G. Maurice Peffer. William Amos and Dorothy R. Amos contributed funds for the park's development as well. A small portion of the land is a recreational park. The balance is maintained as a natural area to promote outdoor recreation, education, and research in the natural sciences. Common activities include hiking, snow skiing, mountain biking, birding, and a unique program conducted by Miami University's Outdoor Pursuit Center.

Hueston Woods State Park is located off of Highway 732 and Brown Road, a few miles north of Oxford. This state park offers superb locations for fossil hunting. For more information about fossil collecting at Hueston woods, click here.

Caesar Creek State Park is located in Waynesville, Ohio, and hosts a number of activities and events throughout the year. For more information about the Caesar Creek State Park, click here.

Hamilton County Park District

The Hamilton County Park District is composed of 21 different parks throughout Cincinnati, Ohio. These parks offer a variety of outdoor activities and nature programs for both children and adults. For more information about the Hamilton County Park District, please click here.

Ohio Geology Maps

Geology is everywhere! Links to Ohio
geology maps show other areas where you can find interesting geological features.